A human skull that was discovered in a garden is believed to be ancient - and there may be a full skeleton on the site.

A police investigation was carried out when officers were called to a property in Springwell Terrace, Darlington on Monday after workmen working on an extension discovered what they believed to be a human skull.

Police have now confirmed the skull to be that of a human, and that the remains are believed to be ancient and further bones have also been recovered from the site.

As a result, they are not linking the discovery to any live investigations.

Detective Chief Superintendent Adrian Green, from Durham Constabulary , said: “There is indication of a full skeleton at the site and all accessible bones have been recovered.

“DNA testing and carbon dating is being carried out on the remains and may take some time.